Gregory to host 'Meet the Press'

NBC News plans to name David Gregory as moderator of “Meet the Press,” infusing one of television’s most prized franchises with a sharp edge leavened by a youthful style and versatility, according to network executives.

Gregory, 38, celebrated his 30th birthday — complete with cake — aboard George W. Bush’s presidential campaign plane, the assignment that solidified his stature as a network rising star. Enjoying a gravitas boost from his prematurely salt-and-pepper mane and friendships with Tom Brokaw and other of the legendary figures of NBC News, the Los Angeles native quickly became one of the hottest personalities in network news.

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The plan to anoint Gregory is not final but will be as soon as today, the executives said. NBC spokespeople refused to comment, saying the network would make the announcement.

The decision was made by Jeff Zucker, president and chief executive officer of NBC Universal, and Steve Capus, president of NBC News.

As NBC’s chief White House correspondent, Gregory has been a dogged — occasionally prickly — questioner of both the president and his press secretaries. The perceived tension benefited both sides, and Gregory maintained productive relations with senior officials.

Former White House press secretary Ari Fleischer said Gregory would be "an excellent choice": "No one was a tougher, more aggressive questioner in the briefing room than David Gregory. But when it came time to go on the air, he was always nothing but fair."

Gregory also speaks French and is an avid oenophile and doting father of three.

Gregory’s playful side emerged during stints as guest host of the “Today" show and of the former “Imus in the Morning” back when the simulcast was the most successful part of MSNBC’s lineup.

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Gregory’s current assignment is anchor of “1600 Pennsylvania Avenue with David Gregory” (formerly “Race for the White House with David Gregory”), an hourlong talking-head show on MSNBC at 6 p.m. Eastern.

The title of “moderator” — unique in network news — reflects the 61-year history of “Meet” as the premier forum for Washington insiders to talk to the country and each other.

The choice carries long-term ramifications for NBC and its news division. “Meet,” the longest-running program ever on network television, is a cash cow and a major source of prestige for NBC Universal and its corporate parent, GE. However, ABC officials hope the change provides an opportunity for George Stephanopoulos to increase the cachet of the competing “This Week.”

NBC issued a release Monday citing Nielsen Media Research data showing “Meet” as the leading Sunday morning public affairs program in November, in Washington and nationally, with 4.5 million viewers.

Brokaw was named “interim moderator” after the death in June of the beloved but formidable Tim Russert at age 58, a loss that is still felt in the Washington bureau. Ratings show the program has remained strong, and even grown, with Brokaw in the chair. On Sunday, Brokaw is to interview President-elect Barack Obama in his first appearance on the program since July, when the show originated from London as he concluded an overseas tour.

Betsy Fischer, one of Washington’s most respected behind-the-scenes network forces, will remain as executive producer, the executives said.

The executives provided elliptical information that did not either raise or preclude the possibility that a supporting cast could be named along with Gregory.